Bulikula storm into RLWC semi-final

THE Vodafone FIJI Bulikula have stormed into the Rugby League World Cup semi-finals after producing a breathtaking 54-6 demolition over France at the Cbus Super Stadium yesterday.

The Fijian women delivered an attacking masterclass, crossing for 10 tries to secure their place in the final four in their maiden appearance at the tournament.

Tahlia Marshall wasted little time making in their presence felt, opening the scoring in the fourth minute before Maria Paseka marked her return from a leg injury with another try in the 20th minute.

As the French defence struggled to contain Fiji’s attacking rhythm, interchange forward Aliti Namoce and playmaker Losana Lutu crossed within three minutes of each other to give their side a commanding 20-0 half-time advantage.

France, however, came out firing after the break, with Fanny Ramos breaking through from dummy-half before finding Stecy Bessiere in support for a try in the 39th minute.

The Bulikula quickly responded through Cassie Staples, restoring their momentum and stretching the lead to 24-6.

Marshall then grabbed her second try in the 46th minute after finishing a sweeping attacking movement to the left, with Taina Naividi providing the final pass. Luisa Yaranamua added the conversion to extend Fiji’s advantage to 32-6.

With confidence flowing, the Bulikula continued to turn up the pressure as powerhouse forwards Latisha Smythe and Leilani Ahsam crossed in quick succession.

Lorren Ieli then provided the finishing touch to a memorable afternoon, powering past four defenders to score in the 68th minute as Fiji completed their commanding victory.